Earlier this summer, an art camp was held at the Arts Depot located at 115 N. Howard St. in Union City. During this camp the young artists explored the bold energetic style of artist Keith Haring, who emerged from the New York City graffiti scene in the 1980s and often used his work to raise awareness of social issues such as apartheid, and AIDS. They were then encouraged to create their own pieces inspired by Haring’s style.
On Saturday afternoon, an exhibit of their work was held at the Towne Square Community Centre in downtown Winchester. Based upon the response to this, the Arts Depot in Union City is laying the groundwork for an exciting new chapter in community arts education. The organization is preparing to launch the Depot Art Studio, a mobile program designed to bring high-quality arts education to children across Randolph County.
“Depot Art Studio isn’t just about making art,” said Pam Fraizer, Executive Director of the Art Association of Randolph County. “It’s about inspiring young minds. Each program will introduce students to a contemporary artist, explore cultural literacy, and then give participants the opportunity to create their own unique works of art. The goal is simple but powerful: to plant seeds of creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression in the next generation of Randolph County residents.”
Through this program, Arts Depot leadership hopes to develop a new generation of creative thinkers.
“The arts build confidence, spark imagination, and give young people the tools to see the world differently. These are skills that will carry them well beyond the classroom or studio,” said Fraizer.
Plans are also in motion for a revolving display of student work in the Depot’s new Creative Library, ensuring young artists’ creations are not only celebrated but shared with the community on an ongoing basis. In addition, Depot Art Studio classes will be held in public libraries, elementary schools, and community centers, led by a dedicated team of experienced educators, practicing artists, and early-childhood-trained volunteers. This approach will make the arts more accessible than ever before, meeting students where they are and weaving creativity into daily community life.
“The Depot Art Studio will bring arts education directly into schools, libraries, and community centers, making creativity accessible to every child in Randolph County,” said Fraizer.
The Depot Art Studio concept will take center stage on Thursday, Sept. 25, when the Arts Depot team presents their vision at “The Pitch,” a live competition hosted at Vision Corner located at 202 N. Columbia St. in Union City. This is the third year for the event, which will be shown live on KISS-TV. The Arts Depot is just one of a number of area businesses and organizations that will make a “Shark Tank” style presentation of their concepts for ways they can better serve the community to a panel of judges. Winners will receive a monetary award to help make their visions a reality. Both in-person and online audiences will have the chance to vote in the Audience Choice Award for both Business and Nonprofit divisions. Community members are encouraged to attend or tune in, to cast their votes.
